Looking for a way to spend a fabulous weekend in America’s Heartland? Discover the best things to do in Wichita, where vibrant culture, rich history and mouthwatering cuisine come together to create unforgettable experiences.
Located roughly halfway between Kansas City and Oklahoma City, Wichita offers a perfect blend of culture, history and entertainment in the heart of America. Whether you enjoy spending time outdoors, love admiring art or want to eat your way through the city’s local food scene, Wichita promises a weekend filled with unforgettable experiences. Here are some of my favorite things to do in Wichita.
Outdoor activities in Wichita
If you enjoy spending time outdoors, Wichita is a fantastic place to spend a weekend. From beautiful botanical gardens to unique, up-close wildlife encounters, there’s no shortage of nature-filled fun.
Botanica
Start your weekend with a serene stroll through Botanica. This 17-acre oasis features over 30 themed gardens that change with the seasons. Enjoy beds of tulips in the spring, gardens filled with butterflies in the summer and bright holiday lights in the garden’s winter light display.
Sedgwick County Zoo
Just a short drive from Botanica, the Sedgwick County Zoo is home to over 3,000 animals and 400 species. Explore the immersive exhibits, like the Elephants of the Zambezi River Valley and the Downing Gorilla Forest, for an unforgettable wildlife experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to ride the zoo train or take a boat tour for a unique perspective on the animals and their habitats.
Tanganyika Wildlife Park
For a more interactive wildlife experience, head to Tanganyika Wildlife Park. Here, you can feed giraffes, rhinos and lemurs — even swim with penguins. The park offers up-close animal encounters that are both fun and educational, making it a perfect spot for families and animal lovers alike.
Art and culture
Whether you like stunning sculptures or fascinating museums, there are plenty of fun things to do in Wichita if you are an art enthusiast or history buff. Check out these must-visit spots.
Keeper of the Plains
A visit to Wichita isn’t complete without seeing the iconic Keeper of the Plains. Standing 44 feet tall at the confluence of the Arkansas and Little Arkansas rivers, this American Indian sculpture was crafted by Blackbear Bosin. Don’t miss the Ring of Fire lighting ceremony, when a circle of fire pots is illuminated at the base of the statue each night.
Mid-America All-Indian Museum
If the Keeper of the Plains inspires you to admire more of Bosin’s work, head to the Mid-America All-Indian Museum. Inside, you’ll find more of his impressive art depicting Native American life. You can also learn more about the rich history and culture of Native American tribes — and not just the local Wichita people or Kitikiti’sh.
Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum
On the east bank of the Arkansas River, you’ll find the Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum. In a native stone castle that once housed the first city hall, you’ll find exhibits that celebrate Wichita’s growth from a trading post to the largest city in the state of Kansas.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Allen House
It’s hard to imagine a more appropriate place to admire legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s prairie-style design than on an actual prairie in the Sunflower State. Once home to Kansas Governor Henry Allen, the century-old house gives visitors a peek into Wright’s architectural genius in the form of long horizontal lines, nature-inspired stained glass and golden earth tones.
Wichita Art Museum
Art lovers will find their haven at the Wichita Art Museum, which houses a collection of American art. Don’t miss the stunning Chihuly Bridge, a glass installation that adds a burst of color and creativity to your visit.
Douglas Design District
For a dose of urban culture, explore the Douglas Design District. This downtown area is bursting with vibrant murals, unique sculptures and a variety of local shops and galleries. Kelly Ratcliff, from Dining Duster, enjoyed spotting murals throughout the area on a recent trip to Wichita, “With hundreds of options, we could have made a day out of just spotting murals.”
Food and drink
With more than 1,200 restaurants, coffee shops and other delicious eateries, you’re sure to find something tastily satisfying. Here are a few of my favorite spots that I visit every time I’m in Wichita.
Doo-Dah Diner
Before you enjoy the best things to do in Wichita, fuel up with breakfast at Doo-Dah Diner. Named after one of Wichita’s charming nicknames, this cozy spot is famous for its hearty breakfast offerings. Be sure to pair your morning cup of coffee with their banana bread French toast, a local favorite that’s the perfect start to your day.
“If you enjoy southern comfort food, Doo-Dah Diner is the place to go. The bright colors and vintage vibe are a cheerful way to start your day. I recommend the chicken fried steak and biscuits and gravy.”
— Amy Piper, Follow the Piper
Old Mill Tasty Shop
As one of the oldest restaurants in Downtown Wichita, Old Mill Tasty Shop has been serving locals and visitors for decades. I recommend inquiring about the daily Blue Plate Special and pairing whatever you order with a chocolate malt from the old-fashioned soda fountain.
Elderslie Market & Creamery
For a unique fine dining experience, head just beyond the city limits to Elderslie Market & Creamery. Wind your way past a barn and lush pastures to this farm-to-table restaurant where an exquisite five-course, seasonal prix fix dinner awaits. If someone else is driving, I recommend adding the optional wine pairing.
If you don’t have time for an amazing dinner, you can still grab a quick bite at the Bramble Cafe or grab artisan cheese and accouterments like salami and crackers at the Elderslie Creamery Market.
Wrapping Up Your Weekend in Wichita
From beautiful gardens and captivating museums to delicious dining spots and vibrant districts, Wichita offers a weekend full of delightful experiences. So pack your bags, hit the road and get ready to discover all the fun things to do in Wichita.
Sage Scott was bitten by the travel bug as a preschooler when her family moved abroad for the first time. Now settled in America’s Heartland, Sage is a travel writer, world wanderer and photographer whose favorite color is golden hour. Follow her adventures at Everyday Wanderer.